Musings of a Catholic Convert

2008-03-03T07:58:00.003-06:00

Check Out the New BLOG:

My new blog is up, updated, imported, and all that neat stuff. RSS feeds are live too, so change your bookmarks and links if you would and see my new digs.

You can also change your bookmarks for my ministry page. Polycarp Ministries is up and running here. Change your bookmarks and links.

2008-01-17T16:24:00.001-06:00

TOTALLY CATHOLIC BLOGGING COMMUNITY:

You can go to catholicdestination.com now and join the only totally catholic blogger community. It is totally free and totally awesome. I have been watching this thing develop (still some cosmetic stuff to do) and getting more excited every week.

Now it's LIVE.

http://www.catholicdestination.com/community/

PS. I just learned that you can move your current blog over there. Once you create an account, you can import your existign blog content to the new site. Several formats are supported. IS THAT NOT AWESOME?

2007-09-05T17:46:00.001-05:00

It's Alive!

Okay, so that new website I mentioned, CatholicDestination, is now live. You can now create blogs (I already did), read the daily Gospel, and more. More features are coming so you'll want to visit often. I have a couple of articles posted there and I hope to have the chance to write more for them, maybe even with some illustrations or something.

This banner looks a whole lot better than the first one. See, I told you they were getting better all the time. You can click on the Affiliate Program link from the home page and become an affiliate too. Won't cost you anything and the money would help, wouldn't it?

2007-08-30T16:07:00.000-05:00

The Catholic Blogging Community is Coming!

I have it from a reliable source that the blogging community at CatholicDestination will be finished soon. In the meantime, they are putting up loads of content. I even have a couple of articles there myself as a guest writer (It's nice to have friends with connections!).

2007-07-02T10:19:00.000-05:00

Hitting the Reset Switch:

I'm moving my blog to a new domain. Starting soon, my blogs will be moving to http://www.CatholicDestination.com. Within this domain there will be an entire Catholic blogging community housed in the same place. I've been looking at a sneak preview of the community site and it looks really cool, and it will be totally free!

I encourage you to check CatholicDestination.com from time to time as the community is built. Right now, CatholicDestination.com has the fastest growing online store if you're looking for Church goods, books, bibles, jewelry, first communion gifts, even vestments. The new stuff I've been able to see is going to also provide news, faith-building articles, the aforementioned blogging community, the Bible online, and a whole lot more. I'm really excited about the growth of that site, especially after seeing the preview.

2007-02-07T13:20:00.000-06:00

End of An Era:

So long, farewell, Auf wiedersehen, goodbye,

I can't maintain this blog. As much as I have enjoyed posting on it, I just can't keep up the pace enough for this site to be relevant. I'm not going to delete the blog - at least not yet - and I'm going to leave up my other two blogs (WhyCatholic? and CatholicSpeak), but this one will no longer be updated.

In gratitude for all your visits and kind emails I quote the great and wise Eeyore who once said, "Thanks for noticing."

2007-01-25T10:53:00.000-06:00

I have no idea:

Internet Explorer is giving me fits. I only now figured how to get back to my "new" blogger account with Firefox. I'm frustrated, but I am alive (in case anyone doubted). I trust you are all doing well. During my hiatus, we were blessed with a new addition to our family. Little Raegan Therese was born last Thursday. She and mommy are doing great.

Question: anyone in the Memphis metro area interested in being part of the Third Order of Dominicans (Laity)? Email me if you are. I have some information you may find helpful.

2007-01-11T08:10:00.000-06:00

Who are you praying for today?

During your daily prayer time with God, who is currently on your prayer list? Are you praying for others or are most of your prayers your own intentions. It never hurts to add other intentions, especially those of others. Remember that God is able to meet all of our needs simultaneously. He is all-knowing and all-powerful. Make sure also to give yourself time to prepare for prayer before giving God your petitions. Remember who it is you're talking to. Take time to offer praise and thanksgiving for all that God has done and, most importantly, who He is.

Persons always in need of prayer for you to add to your intentions:
- the unborn
- the lonely
- the holy souls in Purgatory
- those who do not know Christ
- the impoverished
- our bishops, priests, deacons, and religious
- your family
- world leaders
- the people of your parish

Of course there are more, but this would be a great way to start a prayer list if you don't already have one. Take a few minutes to pray for the people above. Remember that as we pray for others, not only is God attending to our prayers, but He is also forming and molding our heart into the likeness of our Lord Jesus Christ. May God continue to change us and to englarge our charity toward others. Teach us to love, Lord Jesus.

2007-01-08T08:20:00.000-06:00

Say it with me - "ROBOT GAS":

Okay, so maybe robots don't actually pump your gas for you, but this place is the most awesome gas station I've ever seen.

I've been calling it Robot Gas for sometime, but it's actually called SmartMart. You can Google it. The guy who invented this station has global patents. I'm waiting on more to pop up. Below is my exciting experience at Robot Gas.

My sensors were indicating that I was dangerously low on fuel. I had to do something. Luckily, I saw the sign for a spaceport - er, fuel depot - er, gas station - up ahead. I pulled in and switched off the ignition. Standing before me was an average-looking gasoline pump with a digital display. "No big deal" I thought. But then I noticed something as I looked toward the convenience store of the station. There were no people. No employees. No crew. Yet the station was open for business. The pump asked me to select my method of payment, using its touchscreen interface. I made my selection, chose my fuel type, and began to fuel my vehicle.

Shortly thereafter, the pump asked me if I would like a cold beverage while I pumped my fuel.
"Of course I would!" was all I could reply. I selected a 20oz Mountain Dew and before I knew it, there was a "whoosh" and my icy cold drink was sitting on a pedestal in front of me. I wide grin broke out across my face as I took the drink and twisted it open. How refreshing! I completed my transaction, replaced the fuel nozzle, and was ready to go.

Before I left, however, I sat and watched the convenience store in action. Touchscreen terminals allowed patrons to shop without having to leave their vehicles. They bought everything from DVDs to dog food to chewing gum. Robots inside the store made it happen. "One day I too will shop at Robot Gas." I said to myself. "So let it be written, so let it be done."

See for yourself the marvel that is SmartMart.

2007-01-04T08:27:00.000-06:00

Now, I may not be as famous as "The Z", however . . .

I want to recommend that you take some of the free online courses offered by the Knights of Columbus. You can go to the Catholic Information Service website and choose from printed or online courses for free.

I further recommend that Knights of Columbus councils use these materials as a way of promoting the spiritual works of mercy among the brethren.

2007-01-03T08:45:00.000-06:00

"The Z" Rules:

Yeeehaaa!

2007-01-02T09:28:00.000-06:00

What a Game!

I bet half of you didn't watch the Fiesta Bowl last night, but you missed one of the best football games of the whole season. I was rooting so hard for Boise State to win. They played like champions and won the game with some awesome timing and, man, I just can't tell you enough of what you missed. Check for this game to be replayed on ESPN Classic or something. The game itself was great to watch, but the last quarter was spectacular on both sides of the ball. Good football game, especially with friends over to watch it with you. We were so excited.

To "The Z" and all the Boise State Broncos go my warmest congratulations. You men did a fine job.

2006-12-27T10:22:00.000-06:00

Where does all the time go?

It's been almost a week since my last post. We've been Christmasing a lot. I love the Christmas season. It's so much fun, and the Churches are always even more beautiful than usual. It was good to have my family visit with us. I know the kids enjoyed seeing their grandparents and vice versa.

We drove around looking for Christmas lights last night. I'm surprised how many people have already either taken them down or turned them off. It's was only the 2nd day of the Christmas season! Of course, they've all bought into the lie that "it's all over" on the 25th. They've allowed themselves be robbed of the true joy of the holiday season, and that, my friends, is sad.

I hope your holidays are providing your families with much joy, and that your Christmas season is full of wonder and thanksgiving.

2006-12-21T08:13:00.000-06:00

10 Years Today!

Today, my wife and I celebrate 10 years of marriage. As an anniversary gift, my wife had our rings cleaned, buffed, and all that stuff that makes them look brand new. We look like a newly wed couple, apart from our 4 children. It's true that every rose has its thorns, just like every night has its dawn, just like every cowboy sings his sad, sad song. Yeah it does.

Ahem.

What I mean to say is that in 10 years of marriage we've seen a lot. It hasn't all been bliss and we've gone through some difficult circumstances, but all these things have made us stronger. I have a wife who loves me for who I am. I can't imagine my life apart from her. We have 3 kids here, 2 in Heaven, and 1 about to be born. We've lived in 4 different cities and have been blessed with a multitude of friends. Even in difficult circumstances we have stuck together, which is good, considering the average marriage in the United States these days is about 8 years. Thank God for the grace given to us in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony! What a blessing for us to all be in the Church together growing in our faith in Jesus Christ. I'm looking forward to the next 10 years.

2006-12-19T10:10:00.000-06:00

I got blisters on me fingers:

So I bought a PS2 and Guitar Hero II this weekend. Having never played a pretend guitar before, my fingers were not used to that sort of movement. Interesting. I hear that Tigers pitcher, Joel Zumaya, was injured while playing the game. Yes, it is that much fun.

Apart from the carpal tunnel, I have also been busy with final preparations for Christmas festivities. In fact, I had my stuff for my wife picked out a long time ago. This is a first for me. I have known for months what to get her, and I pat myself on the back for getting it right for once. We also managed to find more Spider-Man & Friends toys for my son.

I've to loads to do, so I'm off. Have a great day, y'all.

2006-12-14T07:58:00.000-06:00

Give Jesus a present this year:

During my devotional time this morning I read an article by Bishop William Lori. He is the Supreme Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus. You can read the article here (even if you're not a Knight). I was moved by this article. In fact, my mind has been racing since I read it. Even though I have a deep love for the sacrament of reconciliation, I am even more enthusiastic about approaching it during this Advent season. I want to be holy as our Heavenly Father is holy. I want to grow in grace and love, being daily conformed to the image of Jesus Christ, my savior.

Maybe it's been a while since you've been to confession. Maybe your pride has kept you away. Whatever the reason, I encourage you to take the time and be reconciled to God. Heal the divisions your sins have caused, with God, with the Church, and with family, friends, and co-workers. Remember that when God forgives you, your sins are not merely covered over, they are completely removed. Receive the cleansing power and grace of God's forgiveness. He WILL forgive you. Trust in Him.

2006-12-13T08:29:00.000-06:00

God, grant me perspective:

I'm requesting prayer today. I'm reading through the Mass readings for today and I "know" the answer for what I'm feeling right now, but oftentimes internalizing known truths can be difficult. Look at today's Gospel for example.

"Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light."

I'm also reading the Navarre commentaries (gettest thou these for thine own edification). Help abounds here. Read for yourself.

28-30. Our Lord calls everyone to come to Him. We all find things difficult in one way or another. The history of souls bears out the truth of these words of Jesus. Only the Gospel can fully satisfy the thirst for truth and justice which sincere people feel. Only our Lord, our Master-- and those to whom He passes on His power--can soothe the sinner by telling him, "Your sins are forgiven" (Matthew 9:2). In this connection Pope Paul VI teaches: "Jesus says now and always, `Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' His attitude towards us is one of invitation, knowledge and compassion; indeed, it is one of offering, promise, friendship, goodness, remedy of our ailments; He is our comforter; indeed, our nourishment, our bread, giving us energy and life" ("Homily on Corpus Christi", 13 June 1974).

"Come to Me": the Master is addressing the crowds who are followingHim, "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matthew9:36). The Pharisees weighed them down with an endless series of petty regulations (cf. Acts 15:10), yet they brought no peace to their souls. Jesus tells these people, and us, about the kind of burden He imposes: "Any other burden oppresses and crushes you, but Christ's actually takes weight off you. Any other burden weighs down, but Christ's gives you wings. If you take a bird's wings away, you might seem to be taking weight off it, but the more weight you take off, the more you tie it down to the earth. There it is on the ground, and you wanted to relieve it of a weight; give it back the weight of its wings and you will see how it flies" (St. Augustine, "Sermon" 126).

"All you who go about tormented, afflicted and burdened with the burden of your cares and desires, go forth from them, come to Me and I will refresh you and you shall find for your souls the rest which your desires take from you" (St. John of the Cross, "Ascent of Mount Car-mel", Book 1, Chapter 7, 4).

"The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries by members of the Faculty of Theology, Universityof Navarre, Spain.

2006-12-12T10:03:00.000-06:00

Our Lady of Guadalupe:

Today is the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. It is a fascinating story of great spiritual renewal and unity. Read about it here.

God of power and mercy, you blessed the Americas at Tepeyac with the presence of the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe. May her prayers help all men and women to accept each other as brothers and sisters. Through your justice present in our hearts, may your peace reign in the world. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Lord Jesus, teach us to love you as your mother loves you. May we, like the Blessed Mother, be found to be your faithful servants. Amen.

2006-12-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Feast of St. Nicholas:

Hooray! I love Saint Nicholas. I found a web site this morning that tells all sorts of things about "Good Saint Nick". As a matter of fact, I'm going to provide a few links for you. In a world where the idea of St. Nicholas has been reduced to this . . .

. . . it is still refreshing to find that there is a large population who remember who the saint truly is and follow his example of loving Christ. Check out my links.

St. Nicholas Center
Catholic Encyclopedia
Patron Saints Index

2006-12-05T07:51:00.000-06:00

From the Office of Readings for Today:

The very Son of God, older than the ages, the invisible, the incomprehensible, the incorporeal, the beginning of beginning, the light of light, the fountain of life and immortality, the image of the archetype, the immovable seal, the perfect likeness, the definition and word of the Father: he it is who comes to his own image and takes our nature for the good of our nature, and unites himself to an intelligent soul for the good of my soul, to purify like by like. He takes to himself all that is human, except for sin. He was conceived by the Virgin Mary, who had been first prepared in soul and body by the Spirit; his coming to birth had to be treated with honour, virginity had to receive new honour. He comes forth as God, in the human nature he has taken, one being, made of two contrary elements, flesh and spirit. Spirit gave divinity, flesh received it. He who makes rich is made poor; he takes on the poverty of my flesh, that I may gain the riches of his divinity. He who is full is made empty; he is emptied for a brief space of his glory, that I may share in his fullness. What is this wealth of goodness? What is this mystery that surrounds me? I received the likeness of God, but failed to keep it. He takes on my flesh, to bring salvation to the image, immortality to the flesh. He enters into a second union with us, a union far more wonderful than the first. Holiness had to be brought to man by the humanity assumed by one who was God, so that God might overcome the tyrant by force and so deliver us and lead us back to himself through the mediation of his Son. The Son arranged this for the honour of the Father, to whom the Son is clearly obedient in all things. The Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for the sheep, came in search of the straying sheep to the mountains and hills on which you used to offer sacrifice. When he found it, he took it on the shoulders that bore the wood of the cross, and led it back to the life of heaven. Christ, the light of all lights, follows John, the lamp that goes before him. The Word of God follows the voice in the wilderness; the bridegroom follows the bridegroom’s friend, who prepares a worthy people for the Lord by cleansing them by water in preparation for the Spirit. We need God to take our flesh and die, that we might live. We have died with him, that we may be purified. We have risen again with him, because we have died with him. We have been glorified with him, because we have risen again with him.

- St Gregory Nazianzen

2006-12-04T08:13:00.000-06:00

Let's Go Bowling!

Here is the bowl schedule for anybody with money to travel and buy bowl tickets. I will be watching games (those games that interest me) from the comfort of my home. Tennessee plays Penn State in the Outback Bowl, just as I foresaw it. Should be an interesting game.

2006-12-01T07:55:00.000-06:00

Thursday? Nope, it's Friday:

I missed a whole day. Must have been all the wind we had blowing around Memphis yesterday. We had nice warm temps yesterday in the high 60s and when I woke this morning it must have been 30 or colder. All this up and down temperature is driving my sinuses crazy.

Well, in case you didn't know, yesterday was the feast of St. Andrew, Apostle and Martyr. His brother became the first Pope, but did you remember that it was Andrew who brought Peter to Christ? St. Andrew is one of my favorite disciples of Christ, and I ask for his intercession often. As someone who tries to point others to Jesus, I follow his example. No one has yet become Pope, but I'm in no hurry to see our current Pope leave us. Benedict XVI is great!

2006-11-29T08:14:00.000-06:00

Wednesday Class:

It's Wednesday already, so I have a class to teach tonight. I hope everyone is there and rested from having a week off. We have a lot of ground to cover tonight so I need everyone to stay focused.

In the meantime, I've got another full day of work in front of me. 4th quarter is always our busiest time of the year. And on top of that, it's going to be in the 70s today and somebody has the heater on in the office.

But you know what? I've already made my morning offering today so no complaining from me.

2006-11-27T08:02:00.000-06:00

What a Weekend:

I trust that you enjoyed your respective Thanksgiving get-togethers. We had a great visit with my in-laws and had a chance to get out of the house for a few days. I had a good trip but I am so very tired now. The medicine I took for my sinuses last night has left me feeling tired and achy. I expect I'll get over it though.

Did any of you brave the malls on the 24th? We did, and we lived to tell the tale. The highlight of my day? Getting an orange julius. Man, I haven't had one of those in years.

So how was your weekend? How was your holiday? I strongly encourage you to ramp up your prayer efforts during the holiday season. Pray especially for the disenfranchised and the lonely. Suicides during this time of year is always very very high. We need to pray for them and reach out when we can. A great many opportunities abound for helping the needy. Prayerfully consider increasing your giving during this time so that more ministries can reach out to those in need without giving less to those ministries you already support. Don't "rob from Peter to pay Paul". Give generously and watch as your heart is transformed.

2006-11-23T07:01:00.000-06:00

Greetings from the FUTURE: